Dementia risk could be lowered with common bathroom routine says new study

Woman checking her teeth in the mirror
-Credit:Getty


Neglecting a crucial hygiene routine in the bathroom could increase the risk of dementia. New research suggests that regular tooth brushing and flossing may not only ward off cavities and gum disease, but could also be connected to cognitive health.

The researchers found a link between certain types of mouth bacteria and varying cognitive test results. Furthermore, individuals with a type of bacteria associated with gum disease were more likely to experience some form of cognitive impairment.

A team from the University of Exeter, in collaboration with other scientists, conducted a study on the oral bacteria of 120 older adults. Half of these participants had been previously diagnosed with mild cognitive impairment (MCI), a condition that can affect memory and cognitive abilities, potentially heightening the risk of dementia.

ADVERTISEMENT

READ MORE: Tim Spector eats same thing every day to ward off dementia after mum's diagnosis

READ MORE: Sophie Wessex 'follows world's best diet' that can lower cholesterol and dementia risk

The other half were healthy individuals from similar age groups. The research, published in PNAS Nexus, unveiled patterns in the bacterial communities present in the participants' mouths.

According to Study Finds, two types of bacteria, Neisseria and Haemophilus, were associated with better performance in memory and cognitive tests. On the other hand, certain bacteria, particularly Prevotella, were linked to lower scores in these tests.

A significant finding of the study was related to the APOE4 gene, known to increase the risk of Alzheimer's disease. Individuals carrying this gene were found to have higher levels of a specific bacteria, Prevotella intermedia, in their mouths.

ADVERTISEMENT

This suggests that genetic factors could be connected to variations in oral bacterial composition, although the study did not establish a direct cause-and-effect relationship. The study also investigated the potential link between these bacteria and biochemical processes within the body.

Certain oral bacteria aid in processing nitrate, a compound found in foods such as beetroot and leafy greens, converting it into molecules that contribute to circulation and brain function. The study found that individuals with higher levels of Neisseria and Haemophilus bacteria had microbial communities associated with nitrate-related biochemical pathways, although it did not confirm that these bacteria directly boost nitrate processing.

Another important finding was related to Porphyromonas gingivalis, a type of bacteria known to cause gum disease. Participants with mild cognitive impairment were discovered to have increased levels of these bacteria compared to those without cognitive problems, further reinforcing the growing evidence of a connection between oral health and brain health. The researchers also noted that certain combinations of bacteria seemed particularly important.

The pairing of Neisseria and Haemophilus demonstrated the strongest statistical correlation with cognitive test performance, especially in participants with mild cognitive impairment. However, it's vital to emphasise that the study only identified associations - it did not prove that these bacteria directly affect cognitive function.

These findings could be particularly relevant for individuals who carry the APOE4 gene. As these people typically display different bacterial patterns in their oral cavity, an increased emphasis on dental hygiene might be beneficial.

ADVERTISEMENT

Nonetheless, additional research is needed to determine whether specific dental care strategies could help lower the risk of cognitive decline. This isn't the first time that oral health has been linked to.

Dementia has been linked to oral health in previous research. A significant study, published in the Journal of Alzheimer's Disease in 2020, revealed that older adults showing signs of gum disease and mouth infections at the start of the study were more likely to develop Alzheimer’s during the study period.

To maintain good oral health, the NHS suggests the following:

  • Floss between your teeth

  • Limit alcohol consumption

  • Maintain a balanced diet

  • Stop smoking

  • Schedule regular dental check-ups

  • Reduce sugar intake

  • Brush your teeth twice daily

If you observe any issues with your teeth, it is advised to arrange an appointment with your dentist.